Physocarpus Red Baron 3 Litre Pot

Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Red Baron’ – Striking Red-Leaved Ninebark for Year-Round Interest

Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Red Baron’ is a robust and highly ornamental deciduous shrub, prized for its rich burgundy-red foliage and strong garden presence. The deeply coloured leaves emerge in spring and retain their vibrant tones throughout the growing season, creating a dramatic contrast against greener planting companions.

In late spring and early summer, clusters of delicate pink-flushed white flowers appear across the branches, attracting bees and pollinating insects. These are often followed by attractive red seed heads, extending the season of interest well into autumn.

As the shrub matures, the bark begins to peel and exfoliate, revealing attractive layers beneath and providing valuable winter interest when the leaves have fallen. This combination of colourful foliage, flowers, seed heads, and bark makes ‘Red Baron’ a true multi-season performer.

Its naturally arching habit and dense growth make it ideal for mixed borders, informal hedging, screening, and wildlife-friendly gardens. It responds well to pruning and can be maintained as either a compact shrub or a larger specimen.

Thriving in full sun or partial shade, it performs best in well-drained soil and develops its richest foliage colour when grown in a sunny position.

Bold, reliable, and easy to grow, Physocarpus ‘Red Baron’ is an excellent choice for adding dramatic foliage colour and year-round interest to the garden.

Seasonal Highlights

Spring: Deep burgundy foliage emerges.
Late Spring–Summer: Clusters of pink-white flowers appear.
Autumn: Attractive seed heads and rich foliage tones continue.
Winter: Peeling bark provides architectural interest.

Key Features

Burgundy-red foliage – Outstanding seasonal colour.
Pink-white flowers – Attractive pollinator-friendly blooms.
Decorative bark – Excellent winter interest.
Dense habit – Ideal for screening and borders.
Low maintenance – Easy and reliable.

Perfect For

Mixed borders – Strong foliage contrast.
Screening – Informal privacy planting.
Wildlife gardens – Supports pollinators and birds.
Contemporary gardens – Bold colour and structure.
Feature planting – Attractive multi-season interest.

Growing Tips

Sun/Position: Full sun or partial shade; best foliage colour in sun.
Soil: Well-drained soil; adaptable to most conditions.
Hardiness: Fully hardy in the UK.
Care: Prune older stems periodically to encourage fresh colourful growth.

Looks Great With

Spiraea – Contrasting foliage and flowers.
Grasses – Softens the shrub's bold colour.
Cornus – Excellent winter combinations.
Hydrangeas – Seasonal flowering contrast.
Perovskia – Silver foliage pairing.